From Want Ad to Workforce: How Tech is Serving Up Faster Hiring and Longer Retention in Restaurants

Automation Technology Reduces Hiring Times, Boosts Employee Engagement and Empowers Managers to Focus on Operations

WASHINGTON, March 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Between 2025 and 2035, the restaurant and foodservice industry is projected to add 150,000 jobs per year, bringing total industry employment to 17.4 million people. Whether it's an independent operator hiring a few dozen people per year, or a large national brand hiring several thousand, employee recruitment and retention is a hands-on and time-consuming process. The new Workforce Technology Research Insights from the National Restaurant Association, highlights how technology is transforming restaurant recruitment, helping operators streamline hiring and retention efforts while freeing managers to focus on developing teams, optimizing operations, and delivering excellent customer experience.

"More than 80 percent of restaurant operators say that technology gives them a competitive advantage, and we're seeing that in hiring," said Dr. Chad Moutray, vice president of Research and Knowledge for the National Restaurant Association. "By integrating automation and AI-powered tools, restaurants are reducing hiring times, enhancing employee engagement, and fostering a workplace culture that supports long-term retention."

How Operators are Modernizing and Speeding Up the Hiring Process

AI-driven technology solutions are revolutionizing the hiring process for many operators, making recruitment faster, smarter, and more cost-effective. Applicant tracking systems (ATS), chatbots, and automated scheduling tools help manage high application volumes, shorten hiring timelines, and connect employers with top talent more efficiently. Mobile-friendly applications, text-to-apply options, and QR code integrations also make the application process more accessible and convenient for job seekers. By simplifying the hiring process, technology is not only saving the operator time and money, it is also enhancing the candidate experience.

In fact, speed in hiring is now a key competitive advantage. To streamline the process further, 37 percent of restaurant operators plan to adopt automated labor management and recruitment systems.

The Importance of Experience in Hiring and Retention

While hiring has become easier, retaining employees remains a priority, particularly in management and back-of-house roles. The 2025 State of the Restaurant Industry Report found that 54 percent of operators report difficulty filling these positions, highlighting why workforce planning remains essential for long-term stability.

To improve retention, operators are focused on technology that delivers structured onboarding programs, leadership development, and real-time feedback tools. The first 30 to 90 days are critical for retention, and investing in mentorship, training, and digital engagement tools has helped operators strengthen employee commitment.

The Value Proposition for Operators and Workers

By streamlining hiring and improving onboarding, technology allows managers to focus on operational priorities. At the same time, digital tools are helping employees feel more engaged and supported, whether through clearer career pathways, mentorship programs, or real-time feedback mechanisms.

"Technology is playing a fundamental role in reshaping management practices, benefiting both operators and employees," said Moutray. "At the end of the day, it is important for restaurant managers to focus more time on running their restaurants, and increased automation can help free them up to do so."

Moutray added, "That is leading to a growing number of operators investing in automation (37 percent) and AI-driven solutions (28 percent), recognizing that a well-supported workforce leads to greater efficiency, stronger teams, and long-term business success."

Click here to download the Workforce Technology Research Insights, supported by Paradox.

About the National Restaurant Association

Founded in 1919, the National Restaurant Association is the leading business association for the restaurant industry, which comprises more than 1 million restaurant and foodservice outlets and a workforce of more than 15.7 million employees. Together with 52 State Associations, we are a network of professional organizations dedicated to serving every restaurant through advocacy, education, and food safety. We sponsor the industry's largest trade show (National Restaurant Association Show); leading food safety training and certification program (ServSafe); unique career-building high school program (the NRAEF's ProStart). For more information, visit Restaurant.org) and find WeRRestaurants on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube. 

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SOURCE National Restaurant Association